About Dalyan
Dalyan is a town in the Muğla Province of southwestern Turkey. Located between the well-known districts of Marmaris and Fethiye, Dalyan is famed for its natural beauty and ancient history. Here are some key aspects:
Natural Beauty
Dalyan is most famous for its stunning natural environment. The Dalyan River, which the town is named after, winds its way from Lake Koycegiz past the town to the Mediterranean Sea. This river is surrounded by lush vegetation and reed beds, and is home to various species of birds and other wildlife. The area is also famous for its thermal mud baths, said to have healing properties, and the Iztuzu Beach, one of the main breeding grounds for the endangered Loggerhead (Caretta Caretta) sea turtles.
History and Archaeology
The ancient city of Kaunos lies near Dalyan, with its fascinating ruins that include a Roman theater, Roman Baths, Byzantine Basilica, and rock tombs. The Lycian Rock Tombs, in particular, are quite iconic and represent a very distinct type of ancient funerary architecture, carved into the cliff face overlooking the river.
Cuisine
The region is famous for its fresh fish, especially blue crab (known as ‘blue voyage’), which can be enjoyed in many local restaurants. Other traditional Turkish dishes, such as meze, kebabs, and pide, are also widely available.
Culture
While it has grown as a tourist destination, Dalyan still retains its small-town charm. The local people are known for their warmth and hospitality. You’ll also find traditional arts and crafts, and can explore local markets.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in and around Dalyan, including boating on the river, exploring the ancient ruins, visiting the mud baths and thermal springs, sunbathing on Iztuzu Beach, or bird-watching in the surrounding wetlands.
Please be aware that as Iztuzu Beach is a protected area, there are certain restrictions in place to ensure the protection of the sea turtles. These include no night-time access to the beach during breeding season, and strict no littering policies.
How to get to Dalyan
Getting to Dalyan is relatively easy as it’s well-connected to many other cities in Turkey and abroad due to its proximity to Dalaman International Airport.
By Air:
The nearest airport to Dalyan is Dalaman Airport (DLM), which is approximately 29 kilometers away. Many airlines operate regular flights to Dalaman from Istanbul, Ankara, and other major cities in Turkey. During the summer months, there are also numerous charter flights from various cities in Europe.
From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to Dalyan. There are also shared shuttle services available. The drive takes about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
By Road:
If you’re already in Turkey, you can drive or take a bus to Dalyan. The Turkish bus system is extensive and buses are generally comfortable. The journey from Istanbul takes around 12 hours, while from Izmir it takes about 3.5 hours.
By Sea:
There are also some boat services to Dalyan, particularly in the summer months. If you’re staying in a nearby resort such as Marmaris or Fethiye, you might be able to book a day trip to Dalyan by boat. However, please note that these are more for sightseeing and may not be suitable as a main means of transportation.
What to pack for Dalyan
Packing for Dalyan will largely depend on the time of year you’re planning to visit. Given that Dalyan is located in the Mediterranean region of Turkey, the area generally has hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
If you’re visiting in the summer (June – August):
Lightweight clothing: The temperatures can get quite high, so pack breathable, lightweight clothing like shorts, T-shirts, and sundresses.
Swimwear: If you plan on visiting the beach or going on a boat trip.
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen: To protect against the sun.
Comfortable walking shoes: For exploring the town and surrounding areas.
A light jacket or sweater: For cooler evenings.
A reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is important in the summer heat.
If you’re visiting in the winter (December – February):
Warmer clothing: Temperatures can drop, especially in the evenings. Bring long pants, sweaters, and a jacket or coat.
Waterproofs: There can be some rain in these months, so a waterproof jacket might come in handy.
Comfortable walking shoes: Preferably waterproof.
Layered clothing: The weather can change quite quickly, so it’s a good idea to dress in layers.
For all seasons:
Toiletries: Although you can buy most things locally, it’s always handy to bring travel-sized toiletries with you.
Travel adapters: Turkey uses type F power sockets, so you may need an adapter depending on your home country’s plugs.
Medication: Don’t forget any prescription medication you may need, and it’s also a good idea to bring a basic first aid kit.
Travel documents: Don’t forget your passport, driver’s license (if you plan to rent a car), and any other necessary travel documents.
Where to stay in Dalyan?
Dalyan offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, here are some options:
BC Spa Hotel: A luxury resort on the banks of the Dalyan River with its own spa, it’s perfect for those seeking relaxation and tranquility. The hotel also offers stunning views of the rock tombs.
Dalyan Resort – Special Category: This resort offers spacious rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, and is located within a peaceful garden setting.
Beray Apart Hotel: For those who prefer more self-catering accommodations, Beray Apart Hotel offers apartments complete with kitchen facilities.
Kilim Hotel: A budget-friendly option located near the Dalyan River, Kilim Hotel offers comfortable rooms and an outdoor swimming pool.
Dalyan Doga Hotel – Adult Only +15: For those looking for an adult-only option, this hotel offers an outdoor pool and beautiful garden.
Dalyan Tezcan Hotel: This hotel is centrally located and offers panoramic views of the Dalyan River and the ancient King Tombs.
What type of climate does Dalyan have?
Dalyan, located in the southwest of Turkey, experiences a Mediterranean climate. This climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
During the summer months (June through September), temperatures typically range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) but can occasionally exceed 40°C (104°F). The summer is also the driest part of the year with almost no rainfall.
The winter months (December through February) are cooler, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). These months also see the most rainfall, although it’s generally still fairly moderate.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (October and November) offer mild to warm temperatures and less crowd, making them good times to visit if you prefer more comfortable temperatures and a quieter experience.
When is the best time to visit Dalyan?
The best time to visit Dalyan largely depends on what you’re looking to do during your visit.
For beach lovers and sunbathing: The summer months, from June to September, are the best time to visit. During this period, the weather is typically hot and dry, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
For sightseeing: If you’re interested in sightseeing and outdoor activities like exploring the ancient ruins or taking a boat tour along the Dalyan River, the spring (April and May) and autumn (October and November) months may be more comfortable. These periods offer milder temperatures and fewer tourists.
For bird watching: If you’re interested in bird watching, particularly the Loggerhead turtles (Caretta Caretta) and numerous bird species in the region, the best time is between May and October.
To avoid crowds: The quieter times in Dalyan are during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) and the winter months. However, remember that some tourist services may be limited during the off-peak season.
The history of Dalyan
Dalyan is a town in the Mugla Province of Turkey, located between the well-known districts of Marmaris and Fethiye on the south-west coast of Turkey. The town is an independent municipality within the administrative district of Ortaca.
Dalyan’s history stretches back thousands of years, with the region once inhabited by the Kaunians, an ancient civilization believed to be of Cretan origin. The Kaunians established the city of Kaunos, whose ruins can still be visited today. Kaunos was an important seaport dating back to the 10th century BC, but due to the silting of the harbor, the city lost its importance and was eventually abandoned.
Near the ancient ruins of Kaunos, the rock tombs belonging to the kings of Kaunos can be seen. These tombs were carved into the cliff face and are a popular attraction for tourists visiting Dalyan.
Dalyan also has a rich Ottoman history. The name “Dalyan” itself comes from an Ottoman construction – a fish weir – which was designed for catching fish.
In more recent times, the town became famous when developers wanted to build a luxury hotel on the nearby Iztuzu Beach, a breeding ground for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle species. The incident created international uproar, and in 1987 a development freeze was placed on the area, marking a major victory for environmentalists.
Today, Dalyan is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and eco-tourism initiatives.
Famous firsts and greatest of Dalyan
Ancient City of Kaunos: This city was one of the first in the region, dating back to the 9th century BC. Its ruins are a significant archaeological site today.
Rock Tombs: These tombs, carved into the cliff face, are quite unique and one of the greatest symbols of the town.
Iztuzu Beach: Dalyan became internationally known when plans to develop this beach were thwarted in the late 20th century. This marked one of the first major environmental victories in Turkey, preserving the breeding ground of the endangered loggerhead sea turtles.
Lycian Rock Tombs: While similar tombs can be found in other parts of Turkey, those in Dalyan are some of the most visually impressive due to their sheer scale and the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Natural Mud Baths: Dalyan’s mud baths are a natural phenomenon and are believed to have therapeutic properties.
Conservation Efforts: Dalyan is one of the primary places in Turkey where conservation of marine life, especially sea turtles, is taken very seriously. This has led to significant ecological preservation efforts, marking Dalyan as one of the foremost eco-tourism locations in Turkey.
Historical places of Dalyan
Here are some notable historical places in Dalyan:
Kaunos: An ancient city located just across the river from Dalyan. Founded in the 9th century BC, it contains a wealth of ruins from different eras, including a Roman theater, Byzantine basilica, and Roman baths.
Lycian Rock Tombs: These tombs date back to around 400 BC and are carved into the cliffs overlooking the river. They’re best viewed from a boat on the river, especially at sunset.
Kaunos Rock Tombs: These tombs, also carved into the cliffs, were the burial sites of the kings and nobles of Kaunos.
Kaunos Acropolis: Located in the ancient city of Kaunos, the acropolis offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Ancient Harbor of Kaunos: This ancient harbor was once a bustling trade port. Today, you can still see the remains of the harbor and some old shipwrecks.
The ruins of the Byzantine Church: Located in Kaunos, these ruins offer a glimpse into the rich history of the area during the Byzantine era.
Sultaniye Hot Springs: While not necessarily historical, these thermal springs have been enjoyed for their therapeutic properties for generations.
Who is the most famous people in the history of Dalyan?
Dalyan, located in southwestern Turkey, is not known for any specific famous person from its history. Its fame comes mostly from its natural beauty and historic sites, such as the ancient city of Kaunos and the Lycian rock tombs.
The town remains relatively small and has not been the birthplace or residence of any major historical figures. However, the region’s history is rich and dates back to the Lycians and Romans, among others. The area was historically populated by people who left significant cultural and archaeological footprints, though their individual names are largely unknown.
The 15 best things to do in Dalyan
- Visit the Ancient City of Kaunos: Explore the remains of this once-thriving port city that includes an amphitheater, Roman baths, and an early Christian basilica.
- Take a Boat Trip to Iztuzu Beach: Known as Turtle Beach, this is one of the main breeding grounds for loggerhead turtles. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and perhaps even spotting some wildlife.
- Lycian Rock Tombs: These tombs were carved directly into the cliffs across the river from Dalyan. They date back to around 400 BCE and are a must-see.
- Sulungur Lake: Enjoy the peaceful views, do some bird-watching, or have a picnic in this beautiful area.
- Explore the Dalyan River: Take a boat tour or kayak on the river to admire the scenic beauty of the area.
- Visit the Dalyan Mud Baths: These thermal springs are said to have healing properties and are a fun way to relax and pamper yourself.
- Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Try the fresh fish or blue crab, a local delicacy, in one of the many riverside restaurants.
- Market Day: Visit the local market on Saturdays to purchase fresh produce, textiles, spices, and other local goods.
- Explore the Countryside: Rent a bike or go for a hike in the surrounding area to admire the natural beauty.
- Sailing and Water Sports: Try windsurfing, sailing, or snorkeling in the clear waters around Dalyan.
- Visit Ekincik Bay: This beautiful bay is a perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
- Bird Watching: Dalyan is home to many species of birds. Take a tour or go on your own to spot them.
- Visit the Sea Turtle Research, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre: Learn more about the efforts to save and protect the local sea turtle population.
- Visit Kaunos Archaeological Museum: Discover the history and archaeology of the area with a variety of exhibits from various time periods.
- Visit the Koycegiz Lake: This beautiful lake is perfect for a boat ride, and you can also visit the Sultaniye Hot Springs located nearby.
What is the best places to visit in Dalyan?
Dalyan offers a unique mix of historical, natural, and cultural attractions. Here are some of the best places to visit:
Kaunos: This ancient city, once a major trading port, is full of historical ruins including an amphitheater, Roman baths, and Byzantine basilica. It’s just across the river from Dalyan and offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past.
Lycian Rock Tombs: These impressive tombs were carved into the cliffs along the Dalyan River around 400 BCE. The tombs offer a stunning view, especially when they’re lit up at night.
Iztuzu Beach (Turtle Beach): This beautiful, 4.5 km long beach is a major breeding ground for the endangered loggerhead turtle. It’s also a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Sultaniye Hot Springs and Mud Baths: These thermal springs near Koycegiz Lake are famous for their therapeutic properties. Covering yourself in the mineral-rich mud and then washing it off in the hot spring is a unique experience.
Dalyan River: A boat trip on the river offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and wildlife, including numerous bird species.
Dalyan Market: Visit this vibrant market on Saturdays to buy local products, fresh produce, and traditional Turkish items.
Ekincik Bay: The bay’s crystal clear water is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and boating. It’s also a popular spot for yacht anchorage.
Sulungur Lake: Just a short trip from the town center, this lake offers tranquil views and a rich birdlife. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers.
The best Dalyan Tours
Here are some of the top tours you can take:
Kaunos Ancient City Tour: Explore the historical city of Kaunos, see the well-preserved amphitheater, Roman baths, and Byzantine basilica, and learn about its ancient history from a knowledgeable guide.
Dalyan River Cruise: Enjoy a scenic boat trip along the Dalyan River, with opportunities to spot local wildlife, visit the Lycian rock tombs, and swim in the river’s clear waters.
Iztuzu Beach and Turtle Watching Tour: Head to the beautiful Iztuzu Beach, also known as Turtle Beach, and learn about the conservation of loggerhead turtles. Depending on the season, you might even get a chance to see these turtles.
Sultaniye Hot Springs and Mud Baths Tour: Experience the therapeutic mud baths and hot springs of Sultaniye. This tour often includes a boat ride on the picturesque Koycegiz Lake.
Dalyan Market Tour: Visit the bustling Dalyan Market, where you can shop for fresh produce, local products, and traditional Turkish items. A guide can help you navigate the stalls and bargain with vendors.
Ekincik Bay Boat Tour: Take a day cruise to the beautiful Ekincik Bay, where you can swim, snorkel, or just relax on the beach. Some tours also include a visit to the nearby sea caves.
Sulungur Lake Bird Watching Tour: For nature lovers, a tour to Sulungur Lake can be a great opportunity to spot many species of birds in their natural habitat.
Dalyan’s best beaches
Here are some of the best beaches in and around Dalyan:
Iztuzu Beach: Also known as Turtle Beach, Iztuzu Beach is Dalyan’s most famous beach. It’s a unique location due to its fine sandy beach and being a breeding ground for the endangered Loggerhead sea turtles. The beach is also a nature reserve and home to diverse wildlife. It’s a long, narrow spit of land, so you have the option of swimming in the sea or the river.
Ekincik Bay: A boat ride away from Dalyan, this bay features stunning, secluded beaches, clear waters and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or snorkeling.
Asi Beach: Located across the river from Iztuzu Beach, Asi Beach is quieter, offering a peaceful alternative with the same stunning views. Be aware that it’s a little more difficult to reach, often requiring a boat or a hike.
Sarigerme Beach: About half an hour’s drive from Dalyan, this long sandy beach is perfect for windsurfing and other water sports. It’s a well-maintained beach with good facilities, including sun loungers, cafes, and showers.
Bacardi Beach: Named for its resemblance to the white sandy beaches seen in Bacardi Rum commercials, this secluded beach in Marmaris is about an hour’s drive from Dalyan and is a local favorite.
Dalyan’s nightlife
Bars and Pubs: The riverside in Dalyan is lined with a number of bars and pubs, offering a tranquil setting to relax and enjoy an evening drink. Some popular ones include Jazz Bar and Caria Lounge which often have live music, while the Dalyan Rock Bar offers a lively atmosphere with rock music. Temsi Bar and Cafe is known for its cocktails.
Restaurants: There are numerous restaurants offering a range of cuisines, including traditional Turkish food. Many of these places, like Safran Restaurant, also serve alcohol and some have live traditional music and dancing.
Boat Trips: You can take an evening boat trip along the river, some of which include dinner. These can provide a peaceful and scenic evening out.
Turkish Night Shows: Some hotels in Dalyan host Turkish night shows, featuring traditional music, dance, and food. This can be a fun way to spend an evening and learn more about Turkish culture.
What is the traditional food of Dalyan?
Here are some traditional foods you might find in Dalyan:
Blue Crab (Mavi Yengeç): Dalyan is famous for its blue crabs, and you’ll find many restaurants serving crab dishes.
Gözleme: A traditional Turkish flatbread that is usually filled with various ingredients such as cheese, spinach, or potatoes.
Pide: Often described as Turkish pizza, it is a boat-shaped bread with a variety of toppings, such as cheese, meat, or vegetables.
Meze: A variety of small dishes usually eaten at the start of a meal or as accompaniments to the main course. Popular Meze in Dalyan might include hummus, tzatziki (cucumber yogurt dip), eggplant salad, and stuffed vine leaves.
Grilled Fish and Seafood: Given its location near the sea, Dalyan offers an excellent variety of fresh seafood. Grilled sea bass and sea bream are particularly popular.
Kebabs and Köfte: Various types of kebabs and köfte (Turkish meatballs) can be found on the menus of many restaurants in Dalyan.
Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. A popular dessert in Turkey.
Turkish Tea and Coffee: Not a food, but still a significant part of the Turkish culinary experience. Turkish tea (çay) is typically served in small tulip-shaped glasses and is a must-try. Turkish coffee, with its strong and rich flavor, is another traditional delight
The best restaurants in Dalyan
There are a variety of highly-rated restaurants in Dalyan that cater to a wide range of tastes, from traditional Turkish cuisine to international dishes. Here are some of the best restaurants in Dalyan as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021:
Begonvil Restaurant: Known for its garden setting and excellent food, Begonvil Restaurant is a popular choice in Dalyan. The menu features Mediterranean, Turkish, and international dishes with vegetarian and vegan options.
Çağrı Restaurant: Located in the heart of Dalyan, this restaurant offers traditional Turkish and Ottoman cuisine.
Saki Restaurant: Saki Restaurant has an excellent reputation for its fresh seafood dishes, but the menu also includes Turkish, Mediterranean, and European options.
Yeners Place Restaurant and Bar: This restaurant is praised for its friendly service and delicious food. The menu includes a mix of Turkish, European, and British dishes.
Mehmet’s Heaven Restaurant: It is an organic farm and restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh dishes made from ingredients grown on the farm.
Akkaya Garden Restaurant: This restaurant is located a bit outside of Dalyan in a beautiful garden setting. The menu features a variety of Turkish dishes.
What is the most popular gift in Dalyan?
When it comes to popular gifts or souvenirs to take home from Dalyan, here are some suggestions:
Lycian Rock Tombs Inspired Art: As one of the most significant landmarks in Dalyan, you might find artistic representations of these fascinating structures in various forms – paintings, postcards, or even small models.
Turkish Delight and Spices: Turkish Delight, or “lokum”, is a sweet treat that originated in Turkey and can be found in many flavors. You can also find a variety of spices at local markets.
Turkish Tea or Coffee: Turkey is famous for its unique style of tea and coffee. You can purchase Turkish tea leaves or coffee grounds to bring home.
Handmade Carpets and Kilims: Turkish carpets are renowned worldwide for their quality and design. Dalyan, like many towns in Turkey, has shops where you can buy handmade carpets or kilims.
Olive Oil and Olive Oil Products: Turkey is known for its olive oil, and there are many products made from it, including soaps and skincare items.
Local Jewelry: Turkish jewelry, often featuring intricate designs and locally-sourced materials, can be a wonderful souvenir.
Local Wines: Turkey’s burgeoning wine industry is gaining a reputation for quality wines. A bottle of local wine could be a good gift for a wine lover.